Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement I: Soil erodibility is a function of the physical characteristics of the rainfall
Statement II: Soil erodibility is defined as the vulnerability or susceptibility of the soil to erosion
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below

• A. Both Statement I and Statement II are true
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are false
• C. Statement I is correct but Statement II is false
• D. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is true

Hint:

Erosivity ($R$) = Rainfall power/intensity (Climate).
Erodibility ($K$) = Soil vulnerability/susceptibility (Soil property).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Soil erosion dynamics clearly distinguish between rainfall erosivity (an external climatic driving force) and soil erodibility (an internal soil resistance property).
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ A = R \cdot K \cdot L \cdot S \cdot C \cdot P \quad \text{(USLE)} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Rainfall Erosivity (\(R\)): The potential ability of rain to cause erosion, which is a function of rainfall intensity, droplet size, and kinetic energy (\(EI_{30}\)). Statement I incorrectly attributes rainfall characteristics to soil erodibility. Hence, Statement I is incorrect.
2. Soil Erodibility (\(K\)): The inherent susceptibility or vulnerability of a soil to detachment and transport by raindrop impact and surface runoff, governed by soil texture, structure, organic matter, and permeability. Hence, Statement II is true.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is true, matching option (D).